Artificial Sweeteners Might Increase the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

You might think artificial sweeteners are safer, since you do not consume real sugar. However, a recent research discovered these substances come with their own risks. It seems that they might contribute to the increase of the type 2 diabetes risk, as they affect the body’s ability to control glucose. The study hasn’t been published yet, but researchers have found correlations with previous research which linked artificial sweeteners with weight gain.

Researchers from the University of Adelaide, Australia wanted to see if consuming too many artificial sweeteners affect the body’s capability of controlling blood glucose levels. Therefore, they recruited 27 healthy people, and had them consume two artificial sweeteners per day, in the form of capsules. These sweeteners, acesulfame K and sucralose, were the equivalent of 1.5 liters of diet drink.

For two weeks, they took these capsules before each meal of the day. At the same time, the study also had a control group, who received a placebo. At the end of the two-week period, researchers discovered how the bodies of the people in the first group responded differently to glucose.

Artificial sweeteners might affect the body’s response to glucose

Researchers think that getting the body used to artificial sweeteners makes it unprepared for real sugar. Therefore, when they consume glucose, the body is predisposed to a deficient assimilation. In other words, glucose is more likely to accumulate in blood if the body is used to artificial substances, and this increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Some of the researchers think these results are similar to those of other studies. On the other hand, others say they are not consistent enough to support a correlation between artificial sweeteners and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. However, this should work as a warning, as many healthy people opt for these substances instead of consuming real sugar.Image Source: Flickr

About Andreas Petersen

Andreas was too little to remember when he and his parents first set foot in America. He considers himself a true American citizen, but uses every opportunity to promote his Danish origins. He is deeply found of politics, all nations’ politics and generally looks forward to the presidential elections. His BA degree in Political Sciences has helped him get familiar to the constitutional frames of US and non-US nations.